Metro addresses mosquito infestation in Winterveldt

The Tshwane metro health department says the mosquito species infesting Winterveldt are not disease-carrying.

This comes after Winterveldt residents complained about mosquito infestations in wards 9 and 24.

Health MMC Rina Marx said the municipal health department sampled the insects to determine the type of species invading the area.

Marx said this was necessary to determine the type of intervention required.

“The laboratory tests undertaken revealed that this mosquito species is not a disease carrier but can cause irritation due to the female insects that require blood to produce their eggs,” she said

She added that among other possible identified causes of the infection are the stagnant water pools that encourage the breeding of the mosquitos.

As part of the intervention measure, Marx said the department is exploring a pesticide programme that could include fogging adult insects and spraying to eliminate the larvae as well as a clean-up campaign.

In a statement, the health department said that the infestation will subside because low temperatures and the lack of rain in winter are not conducive to the hibernating larvae’s survival.

Marx said the department is engaging with various stakeholders such as the environment and agricultural management department, the Gauteng health department, adjoining municipalities and entomologists from the national institute for communicable diseases to seek a long-term solution.

NATURAL MOSQUITO REPELLENTS

The health department also encouraged the use of natural mosquito repellents such as citronella, lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus and tea tree oil.

“We urge the residents to wear clothes that cover the ankles and arms, refrain from littering and eliminate all possible containers around the house where water can accommodate mosquito breeding.”

Marx added that parents and caregivers are also encouraged to ensure their children do not play in wet places.

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